Pollinator Day

Sunday, June 29, 2025

10:00 am – 2:00 pm

$8 members, $10 non-members, $3 children
All activities and presentations are free with admission

Join us for Pollinator Day at the Judson House Historic Gardens on Sunday, June 29 from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm! Enjoy inspiring speakers and hands-on activities for all ages, purchase native pollinator-beneficial plants, and join us in honoring the memory of Carol Hamilton, who is missed by pollinators and humans alike. Discover our pollinator demonstration garden, featuring native plants that support pollinators and offer a glimpse into the past. Celebrate history, nature, and community!

Speaker Presentations

Native Shrubs that Feed the Birds
11:00 am – Nancy Zychek
Nancy Zychek is a UConn Master Gardener, organic grower, farmer and lifelong gardener. She presently is involved with the nonprofit Real Food CT and helps operate the farm in Newtown. Nancy has been curious about native plants since childhood and is constantly learning and teaching others about the fascinating plants that grow around us. 

Make Room for Natives: Sharing the Environment with Wildlife
12:30 pm – Jackie Algon
Jackie Algon became an Advanced Master Gardener and former Coordinator of the Master Gardener Program in Bethel after retiring from 40+ years in Corporate America. She is a co-founder and board member of the Pollinator Pathway, and recently completed a 10-year term on the Wilton Conservation Commission with several years as Chair. Jackie is an active member of the Wilton Garden Club’s Conservation Committee and was its co-Chair for six years. She teaches adult classes at Norwalk Community College and enjoys regularly sharing information about the Pollinator Pathway with communities throughout the area.

Activities

10:00 am – Seed Bombs
Join us for a fun and eco-friendly activity where you’ll create your own seed bomb using paper mache and vibrant zinnia seeds! Learn how to combine recycled paper with soil-friendly ingredients to craft colorful, plantable orbs that can be tossed into gardens or green spaces. Perfect for all ages, this hands-on project is a great way to support pollinators and bring a splash of color to your environment!

11:00 am – Garden Decore
Get creative and add a personal touch to your garden with our rock painting activity! Using smooth stones and paint, you’ll design your own colorful garden decorations—from whimsical creatures to inspiring messages. This fun, hands-on experience is great for all ages and a perfect way to bring art and personality into your outdoor space.

12:00 pm – Marigold Potting
Brighten up your day with this cheerful planting activity! Decorate a colorful flower pot with fun stickers, then plant a vibrant marigold to take home and enjoy. Not only do marigolds add a pop of color, but they’re also known to help protect gardens by naturally repelling certain pests. This hands-on craft is perfect for all ages and a fun way to learn about gardening and plant care.

Pollinator Plant Sale

Purchase native pollinator plants that are especially suited for our region, such as Butterfly Weed, Joe-pye Weed, Milkweed, and more!

Remembering Carol Hamilton

Join us at noon in remembering this very special person who was instrumental in the planning, planting, and maintenance of our Pollinator Garden.